Tao the Van – New TAO the van Automatic gear Mercedes Sprinter 314 campervan

Hi there! My name is Lisa, I’m 25 years old and from the Netherlands. I spent the past 1.5 years doing the craziest thing I’ve ever done; building a van from scratch and travelling Europe solo. Its been a truly amazing adventure leading me to people I’m still very connected to, starting kitesurfing, and other experiences I’ll treasure forever.

Now it’s time for the next phase - I’ll be starting a full time job. This means the van can only be used occasionally by me, and I felt it was time to share my creation with others.

The van

Tao the van is a Mercedes Sprinter from 2016 with automatic gear. Next to its obvious aesthetic qualities (which have lots of love put into them) it truly slides over the road. Words I’ve used to describe it is “driving over clouds” with this van. The automatic gear, cruise control, airconditioning, and seat suspension make it great for long distance travel.

The bed is 160 by 180 in its normal state but can be lengthened simply using the seating platform to 180 by 205. Make sure to not lean to much on the added part as its only made to put your feet on as a lengening.

The van has a relatively spacious kitchen area with big, deep sink and comfortable proprone gas cooking. The kitchen has plenty of storage too. Your clothing and other lifestyle items can be put in the large drawers under the bed and storage space avove the drivers. There is also a big “garage” space under the bed for bigger items such as camping chairs and surf gear. You’ll also find a large pullout table there.

The energy system is powered by solar panels and charged while driving, which has always proben to be sufficient. Must you need extra charge there is also a plug on the side to charge it at a campsite. There are USB ports and 220 volt plugins available. Outdoor shower produces immediate hot water through propane (make sure to turn on when using and off again after using).